History in the making as NI futsal side to meet Scotland later in Home Nation spectacular first
Jonny Michael's side play two weekend matches in Newry
Northern Ireland’s futsal team take on Scotland tonight (Friday) in the first of a history-making double header in Newry.
Jonny Michael’s side face a strong Scottish line-up – making their debut in the province in what will be the first international matches on home soil.
The game is being played at a new £22m facility in Newry Leisure Centre – kick-off 7.30.
A second match takes place the following day again at the same time.
Michael said: “Last time we played Scotland we felt we could have got more out of the game and didn’t perform to our full potential.
“This time we have the added incentive of playing at home and we are confident that our performance will match the atmosphere.”
He is optimistic his players can put on a good performance and is calling on the Green and White Army to offer some welcome support.
“We had a busy end to our domestic season so it has been pleasing to get the players together over the past number of weeks for some training sessions.
"Once again we have been able to add to the group and I am looking forward to the strength these additions will bring to us.
"The backroom team and the players are looking forward to playing in front of a home crowd for the first time so we hope the GAWA will be out in full force and help the players raise their performance.
"Last time we played Scotland we felt we could have got more out of the game and didn’t perform to our full potential.
This time we have the added incentive of playing at home and we are confident that our performance will match the atmosphere.”
Entry to the games at Newry Leisure Centre is free of charge and doors will open to the public at 6.30pm. Everyone is encouraged to come along and cheer on our international futsal team.
Northern Ireland squad:
Goalkeepers
Philip Irvine (Belfast United Futsal Club)
Daniel Rosbotham (Banbridge Town Futsal Club)
Defenders
Adam Barr (FC Salisbury United)
Scott Gunn (Durham Futsal Club)
John Gibson (Banbridge Town Futsal Club)
Ciaran Donaghy (Belfast United Futsal Club)
Wingers
James Gould (Banbridge Town Futsal Club)
Jack Magee (Belfast United Futsal Club)
Conor Glenholmes (Belfast United Futsal Club)
Craig Taylor (Banbridge Town Futsal Club)
Jonathan Pierce (Belfast United Futsal Club)
Danny Stapleton (Manchester Futsal Club)
Jordan Wilson (Banbridge Town Futsal Club)
Pivots
Connor Millar (FC Salisbury United)
Ernestas Verenka (Banbridge Town Futsal Club)
Brendan Shannon (Belfast United Futsal Club